My relationship with the Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF) began in my teenage years during frequent visits to my dad, who worked at Tropic Air, Nanyuki Airstrip – the former location of LWF offices before their relocation to Nanyuki town.
My interest was piqued when I encountered students preparing for their field trip by the forum’s conservation education bus, which prompted my exploration of LWF’s mandate. After completing high school, I pursued a Diploma in Wildlife Management at Kenya Wildlife Service Training Institute (KWSTI), now known as Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI), driven by my passion for nature. During this time, I gained a deeper understanding of conservation and recognized the vital role organizations like LWF play, particularly through their conservation education program.
My quest for membership began after completing an industrial attachment, where I sought opportunities to enhance my skills. LWF stood out as an organization where I could further develop my understanding, and I officially became a member after visiting their booth during the Nanyuki Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) show. Membership has brought tangible benefits, providing opportunities to learn from experts and deepen my understanding of collaborative approaches to natural resources management. Through LWF, I have engaged with stakeholders from various organizations and communities, participating in initiatives to redefine conservation efforts in the Laikipia ecosystem.
The staff at LWF have played a crucial role in my conservation journey, serving as mentors and guiding me towards environmental stewardship. Their expertise has broadened my knowledge on wildlife, water, tourism, land use, and rangeland management, emphasizing the importance of integrating the 4Cs – Community, Culture, Commerce, and Conservation – for sustainable resource management.
Engaging with communities, such as the Naatum Women Group, has allowed me to witness firsthand, the intersection of culture, conservation, and livelihoods, while initiatives like field excursions and conservation education programs have enabled me to contribute to building resilience among the youth.
James Njihia delivering his remarks as a judge during the concluding phase of our invasive species school debates.
Networking and partnership opportunities provided by LWF have been invaluable, allowing me to collaborate with other organizations on projects ranging from eradication of invasive species to climate resilience advocacy and environmental education. These collaborations have not only enhanced my skills but also enabled me to give back to my community, such as collecting soil samples for farmers to improve yields.
I believe that my contributions, alongside those of fellow members, contribute towards achieving LWF’s goal of sustainable resource management. I encourage those interested in conservation to join LWF and be part of this journey towards securing our fragile ecosystems. Together, through the exchange of ideas and collaborative efforts, we can create a robust mechanism for the benefit of the Greater Laikipia Ecosystem.
